Community Counseling Center Foundation hosts superhero fundraiser

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Real life superheroes came together to help raise funds for the Community Counseling Center (CCC) at the Drury Plaza Conference Center Thursday morning.

“It’s an annual event, and all the funds that we raise goes towards our children’s services programs at the Community Counseling Center,” said Michelle Ramsey, Executive Director for the Community Counseling Center Foundation.

The CCC provides 24/7 crisis intervention services for those in need. The services are designed to resolve the crisis, provide support and assistance, and promote a return to pre-crisis functioning.

Michelle Verges gave an eye-opening speech about her experience as a mom for those at the event.

“I had to take a step back and realize that, you know, different situations with children and just trauma, and just mental health, it doesn’t fit in a box,” she said.

Ramsey took a moment to reflect on the programs the CCC offers.

“So, we have youth day treatment. We have school-based counseling. We have Cottonwood Treatment Center,” she said.

New trend data from the Centers for Disease Control’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey reveals teen girls are experiencing extremely high levels of mental distress, violence and even substance use.

Kendra Eads, Executive Director from Southeast Missouri’s Network Against Sexual Assault also known as SEMO-NASV, says the report doesn’t surprise her.

“Average is one in 10 children that will be sexually abused before the age of 18,” Eads said. “That’s actually an even higher number when we’re talking about young girls. That’s more like one in seven.”

Both SEMO-NASV and the CCC are available to anyone in the area who may be experiencing a crisis and looking for support.

“Address the abuse or assault they have experienced and then get them support services, because we know these numbers are very high,” said Eads.

The CCC may be reached at 573-334-1100.